MK-6194 for Vitiligo
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called MK-6194 for individuals with non-segmental vitiligo, a condition that causes skin to lose its color in patches. Researchers aim to determine if MK-6194 is safe, well-tolerated, and effective at reducing vitiligo patches on the face compared to a placebo. Participants will receive either MK-6194 or a placebo in varying dosages. Individuals with non-segmental vitiligo who have had the condition for at least six months and have noticeable face patches may be suitable candidates for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants should not have received certain prohibited medications within specific timeframes before joining the study, so it's best to discuss your current medications with the study team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that MK-6194 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that MK-6194, a new treatment being tested for non-segmental vitiligo, has some safety data from earlier studies. MK-6194 is a modified version of interleukin-2, designed to activate certain immune cells that help control the immune system.
In previous studies, this treatment was used in people, and the safety results were promising. Most patients tolerated the treatment well. Some side effects occurred, but they were generally mild. This suggests that MK-6194 is unlikely to cause serious side effects for most patients.
This trial is in its middle phase, which aims to further assess the safety and tolerance of MK-6194. This phase is crucial for understanding the treatment's safety. While more information is needed, current results offer reassurance about the treatment's safety for those considering joining the study.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for vitiligo?
Researchers are excited about MK-6194 for vitiligo because it offers a new approach compared to current treatments like corticosteroids and phototherapy. Unlike these standard methods, which often work by suppressing the immune system or using light therapy to achieve repigmentation, MK-6194 is designed to target specific pathways involved in skin pigmentation. This targeted action could potentially lead to more precise and effective results with fewer side effects. Additionally, MK-6194 is administered subcutaneously, which might offer a more convenient and consistent delivery compared to topical treatments.
What evidence suggests that MK-6194 might be an effective treatment for vitiligo?
Research has shown that MK-6194 may help treat non-segmental vitiligo. One study involved 12 patients with difficult-to-treat vitiligo using MK-6194, and 7 of them saw their skin color improve by about 51.4%. This suggests that MK-6194 might help restore skin color in people with vitiligo. In the current trial, participants will receive either MK-6194 or a placebo to compare their effects, using a special index to evaluate MK-6194's effectiveness. These early results offer promise for those seeking new vitiligo treatments.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Medical Director
Principal Investigator
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with non-segmental vitiligo, which causes loss of skin color in blotches. Participants must have had the condition for at least 6 months and show a certain amount of facial and body depigmentation. Those with hands and feet involvement or other forms of vitiligo are not eligible.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive subcutaneous MK-6194 or placebo for up to 24 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extension
Participants may opt into continuation of treatment with MK-6194 regimen 1 or 2
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- MK-6194
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Lead Sponsor
Chirfi Guindo
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Chief Marketing Officer since 2022
Degree in Engineering from Ecole Centrale de Paris, MBA from New York University Stern School of Business
Robert M. Davis
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Chief Executive Officer since 2021
JD from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, MBA from Northwestern University Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Bachelor's in Finance from Miami University